Virginia enforces cell phone ban in schools to boost focus

In a recent school board meeting, officials discussed the implementation of Executive Order 33, which mandates a cell phone-free environment during instructional time in Virginia's K-12 schools. Issued by Governor Glenn Youngkin in July, the order aims to enhance the health and safety of students by addressing concerns related to cell phone and social media addiction.

The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) has provided draft guidelines for this initiative, which are currently open for public feedback until September 16. The guidelines define \"bell to bell\" as the period from the start of the school day until dismissal, including lunch and transition times, during which students are prohibited from using cell phones. This definition expands the current policies that allowed cell phone use during breaks.

Key points from the draft guidance include:

1. **Definitions**: The term \"cell phone\" encompasses all mobile devices, including non-smartphones. \"Stored\" means that devices must not be carried on a student's person but kept in designated areas like lockers or backpacks.

2. **Elementary School Policies**: Elementary students are not permitted to use cell phones within school grounds. If a parent deems it necessary for a child to have a phone, it must be turned off and stored away.

3. **Middle School Guidelines**: Similar restrictions apply, with additional provisions for communication. Students must use school-based tools to contact parents for non-emergency matters, and educators are encouraged to avoid personal cell phone communication with students.

4. **High School Flexibility**: High school students may use their phones before and after school hours but must adhere to the cell phone ban during the school day. They are also required to utilize school communication platforms for non-emergency communications.

The board emphasized the importance of developing local policies to address cell phone use on school buses and during extracurricular activities. The initiative reflects a growing concern over the impact of technology on student mental health and aims to foster a more focused educational environment. The final guidelines from the VDOE will be shaped by the feedback received from the community.